Diarrhea is usually characterized by abdominal discomfort and frequent watery stools. Recurrent diarrhea symptoms can sometimes indicate an underlying medical ailment, such as inflammatory bowel disease. According to MedlinePlus, this condition is usually caused by viral illnesses or food poisoning. Although dairy or fried foods can exacerbate diarrhea, some foods can help prevent diarrhea.
Soft and Bland Foods
Many soft foods will stop or prevent toxins or irritation causing diarrhea. MedlinePlus recommends eating crackers and dry toast, as bland foods tend to not irritate your intestine or stomach. Soft and bland foods can also absorb extra intestinal fluids. Seasonings and spices can occasionally make diarrhea worse by upsetting the intestine. Steamed rice, applesauce, bananas, broiled skinless chicken and potatoes are full of nutrients and easy to digest.
Yogurt and Fiber
Although dairy products are not generally recommended for diarrhea, the lactobacillus bacteria or good bacteria in yogurt can curb food poisoning or virus related to diarrhea. Diarrhea will flush bad and good bacteria form your intestine, allowing the production of the remaining bad bacteria. Lactobacillus keeps diarrhea-producing symptoms in check. According to MedlinePlus, chronic diseases, such as diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel syndrome, often respond well to dietary fiber as well. Sources of dietary fiber include whole wheat products such as bread, bran and brown rice.
Hydration
Increased hydration helps to curb diarrhea related symptoms such as fatigue and headache. Dehydration, a common side effect of diarrhea, empties the colon of fluids before they can be absorbed by your intestine. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you should consume water, natural juices, rice water or barley for nutritional hydration benefits during diarrhea.
